Shorty Peak Lookout

SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

Sites & Rates

1 total site · $45.00 avg/night

About Shorty Peak Lookout

Shorty Peak Lookout, 45 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry, sits atop Shorty Peak with views of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges of Northern Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia. The rustic dwelling was once used to patrol forest fires, and is now a unique way for overnight guests to escape the city and become enthralled with 360 degree views of area's magnificence. Access requires a moderate to steep 2.5 mile hike with a 1,300 foot elevation gain. The lookout was refurbished in 2005 and is in excellent condition.

Number of accommodations: 1

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
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Currently open - Jun 21 to Oct 5

001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

$45.00
/ per night
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 4 guests
Surface: Gravel
View Site Details

Reviews (66)

What Guests Are Saying

Visitors to Shorty Peak Lookout enjoyed their stay, highlighting spectacular views and a rewarding hike, though they noted the trail can be challenging. Many appreciated the lookout's well-maintained facilities and amenities, such as firewood and games. However, there were common concerns about spider infestations and the condition of the beds, with some recommending bringing bug spray for the hike. Overall, guests found it a memorable experience, perfect for a private retreat.

Review Summary

4.8
66 reviews
5
81.8%
54
4
13.6%
9
3
4.5%
3
2
0.0%
0
1
0.0%
0

Desi S

Verified

October 5, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Weather turned out amazing !! Sunset and sunrise were spectacular. Late September so a little chilly. Brought hand and feet warmers. Brought battery lights to hand in lookout. Couple games in cabin to play which was much appreciated. Lol cattle on road were very stubborn! But got to trailhead easy, road was well Maintained. Hike has a pretty good elevation gain 🥵 but totally worth it.

Desi S

Verified

October 5, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Weather turned out amazing !! Sunset and sunrise were spectacular. Late September so a little chilly. Brought hand and feet warmers. Brought battery lights to hand in lookout. Couple games in cabin to play which was much appreciated. Lol cattle on road were very stubborn! But got to trailhead easy, road was well Maintained. Hike has a pretty good elevation gain 🥵 but totally worth it.

Mike B

Verified

October 1, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Wonderful stay, lookout is in great shape and clean!

Mike B

Verified

October 1, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Wonderful stay, lookout is in great shape and clean!

Mike B

Verified

October 1, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Wonderful stay, lookout is in great shape and clean!

Brett B

Verified

August 18, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Absolutely loved our stay at Shorty Peak! The 2.5 mile hike in isn’t too bad, just the first .25 miles and the last .25 miles are slightly steep. The lookout itself was immaculately clean as well as the outhouse, which was a nice surprise. The current configuration was two twin beds and a table. Was hoping for a stove/fireplace like Little Guard, but we were never cold at night, even when the temp dropped to about mid-40’s overnight. Great view of Creston, BC at night.

Brett B

Verified

August 18, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Absolutely loved our stay at Shorty Peak! The 2.5 mile hike in isn’t too bad, just the first .25 miles and the last .25 miles are slightly steep. The lookout itself was immaculately clean as well as the outhouse, which was a nice surprise. The current configuration was two twin beds and a table. Was hoping for a stove/fireplace like Little Guard, but we were never cold at night, even when the temp dropped to about mid-40’s overnight. Great view of Creston, BC at night.

Brett B

Verified

August 18, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Absolutely loved our stay at Shorty Peak! The 2.5 mile hike in isn’t too bad, just the first .25 miles and the last .25 miles are slightly steep. The lookout itself was immaculately clean as well as the outhouse, which was a nice surprise. The current configuration was two twin beds and a table. Was hoping for a stove/fireplace like Little Guard, but we were never cold at night, even when the temp dropped to about mid-40’s overnight. Great view of Creston, BC at night.

Gary E

Verified

August 6, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

4

Good

Gary E

Verified

August 6, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

4

Good

Location Shorty Peak Lookout

Address:
6286 Main Street
Bonners Ferry, ID, 83805
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 48.9403 / -116.688

Elevation: 1940 feet

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: July 11, 2026

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Managed by USDA Forest Service